Preventing bad breath

Whether you are preparing for a job interview, date, or just a night out, bad breath may be a concern! It happens to everyone, and can be completely normal, but there are a few ways to prevent that pesky problem when you need your breath to smell fresh and clean.

1. Avoid problem foods, such as onions, garlic, cheese, and very sugary snacks such as soda or candy. Some of those foods are a given, as their smell is very strong and can linger in your mouth, but sugary treats can also coat the teeth and tongue, causing bacteria to form, which also causes bad breath.

2. Avoid tobacco products, which can cause very serious bad breath. Seek help in quitting your habit if needed, and at the very least, before any major event, avoid partaking.

3. Brush and floss those teeth! Food lingering in your mouth and between your teeth causes bacteria, which creates that odor we associate with foul breath. Take time to brush thoroughly, floss, and use a tongue scraper or brush your tongue. Don’t skip that last part- the tongue is often where the odorous bacteria is collecting!

4. Get checked out. If you are experiencing chronic bad breath, not the occasional I-ate-some-onions-for-lunch breath, mention it at your next dental visit. Don’t hesitate to ask–it is nothing to be embarrassed about, and it could be an indicator of an easily solved health issue, or symptom of something more serious. Bad breath can indicate a sinus infection, sleep issues, diabetes, cavities, liver problems, gum disease, or kidney ailments. Most likely, the issue is nothing more than a dental health concern, but it is always best to catch things early.

A practicing dentist since 1982, Dr. Gary Imm, provides advanced cosmetic dentistry, including smile makeovers, sedation, implant and TMJ services. He is committed to progressive, extraordinary care for his guests. All Smiles Dental Care trains at least 300 hours each year at such prestigious centers as the Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dentistry. (LVI)